Published Paper Details:

A nuanced understanding of the distinctions between an order, a judgment, and a decree is essential to comprehending the procedural framework that governs civil adjudication in India. These three concepts, though closely related, represent different stages and functions within the judicial process established under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 (CPC). The CPC serves as the cornerstone of civil justice, outlining the step-by-step mechanism for instituting suits, regulating the conduct of proceedings, and determining the legal consequences of judicial findings. It ensures that every decision rendered by a civil court follows a structured process that upholds the principles of natural justice, fairness, and transparency. A judgment embodies the court's reasoning and conclusions on the matters in dispute, reflecting the judicial mind at work. A decree is the formal expression of that adjudication, conclusively determining the rights and liabilities of the parties involved. An order, on the other hand, addresses procedural or interlocutory matters that arise during litigation and does not necessarily dispose of the suit. Although they operate within the same legal framework, each plays a distinct role in ensuring the orderly administration of justice and the enforceability of judicial outcomes. This research aims to analyze the conceptual foundations, statutory provisions, and judicial interpretations that define the nature and scope of orders, judgments, and decrees under the CPC. It also explores their interrelationship, procedural significance, and the implications they carry for litigants and the justice delivery system. By drawing upon landmark judgments, the study seeks to clarify ambiguities, promote procedural consistency, and contribute to a deeper understanding of civil procedure in India.